The new , which launched last month, is the most utilitarian rooftop tent we’ve seen yet.
For one, it’s much easier to attach to your roof than models from *. Instead of using metal clasps that have to be tightened with a wrench—an awkward process that can take up to 30 minutes—the SkyRise incorporates a series of slick clamps to grasp your bars, no tools required.
At 105 pounds for the three-person tent, the SkyRise also lighter than most of its competitors, as it’s made from ripstop nylon rather than canvas. While we prefer the look of the canvas, it is a fair bit heavier. The Yakima tent seems solidly built, if pretty basic. There are windows on three sides and a mesh ceiling panel. The rain fly attaches with quick-release buckles.
Like other rooftop tents, the SkyRise comes with a plush built-in mattress—in this case, 2.5 inches of high-density waterproof foam that stays in the tent even when packed. When you’re driving, the tent accordions into a compact, 12-inch-tall brick (for both small and medium versions) with a waterproof vinyl cover that’ll keep the tent dry in a downpour.
The Yakima SkyRise tent comes in two sizes: Small (which weighs 95 pounds, sleeps two, and costs $899) and Medium (105 pounds, sleeps three, costs $1350). Both come with an 8'6″ aluminum ladder.